Chinese search engine giant Baidu faced a public relations crisis after its PR chief, Qu Jing, sparked public outrage with her endorsement of a tough workplace culture. In a series of videos, Qu spoke about her strict management style and unrelenting demands on her employees, sparking backlash from young workers tired of grueling hours and high pressure environments.
Qu’s comments triggered a public outcry in China, where young people have long complained about a culture of overwork and competitiveness, particularly in the tech industry. The controversy spread quickly on social media platforms, with many criticizing Qu for her aggressive and insensitive approach. This incident highlighted the growing discontent among Chinese workers towards harsh workplace cultures.
Qu’s apology came after several days of silence, where she acknowledged the criticisms and expressed remorse for causing harm with her remarks. She also emphasized that her comments did not represent Baidu’s values and sought to distance herself from the company’s stance. Baidu has declined to comment on the matter, but sources suggest that Qu’s videos were part of an effort to increase the company’s presence on short video platforms.
Qu’s background at Huawei, known for its aggressive corporate culture, likely influenced her management style at Baidu. Former employees noted a significant turnover in the PR team following her arrival, citing demanding expectations and a militaristic approach to management. Despite criticisms, Baidu’s decision to retain Qu in her position may suggest tacit approval of her behavior, raising questions about the company’s stance on workplace culture.
The incident with Qu at Baidu is part of a broader trend in China, where young workers have been increasingly vocal about the challenges of harsh workplace environments. The backlash against figures like Jack Ma, who endorsed long working hours, reflects a changing attitude towards work-life balance and employee well-being in the country. As economic challenges mount, the issue of workplace culture and employee welfare becomes a central point of contention.
The situation at Baidu underscores the complexities of managing workplace culture in China, where traditional expectations of loyalty and sacrifice clash with changing attitudes towards work and life balance. As the country’s economy faces various challenges, companies will need to navigate these tensions carefully to maintain a productive and healthy work environment for their employees. The incident with Qu serves as a reminder of the importance of understanding and addressing the evolving needs and expectations of the workforce in China.
